Nacogdoches

The historic heart of East Texas, Nacogdoches was the cradle for the idea of Texas's being its own nation. Three unsuccessful campaigns for Texas independence originated here, and the town played a significant role in Texas's ultimate victory and establishment as a republic. Today the flags of the earlier rebellions fly alongside the Spanish, Mexican, and Lone Star flags outside city hall. Just across the downtown square on Main Street is Nacogdoches's visitor information center—stop in if you're looking to do a self-guided walking tour of downtown, as brochures are available. The center also has information on an architectural tour featuring buildings designed by Diedrich Rulfs, whose vision defined numerous structures throughout Nacogdoches. Down the street from the visitor center is a statue of Antonio Gil Y'Barbo, the Spanish settler who established the town in 1779.